January 23rd, 2025, Serdang – The School of Graduate Studies (SGS), Universiti Putra Malaysia, successfully conducted a face-to-face seminar entitled The Basics of Research as part of its ongoing Putra Sarjana Seminar Series. The seminar was held at the Putra Sarjana Room and was delivered by Prof. Dr. Sharmili Vidyadaran, a renowned academic and researcher. The two-hour session, running from 10.00 a.m. to 12.00 noon, attracted not only current UPM postgraduate students but also participants from other universities, highlighting the growing interest in foundational research knowledge.

This seminar focused on essential components for developing a solid research foundation, particularly for those at the early stages of their postgraduate journey. Prof. Dr. Sharmili emphasized several critical elements, such as selecting a suitable supervisor, designing a realistic research timeline, refining problem statements, and developing effective communication skills both written and verbal. These aspects are often underestimated by students but are crucial for a smooth and productive research experience. One of the highlights of the session was the speaker’s minimalist yet impactful approach. Using a simple and concise PowerPoint presentation, Prof. Dr. Sharmili was able to effectively capture the attention of attendees and keep the session engaging. Her approach allowed students to focus more on the core messages rather than being overwhelmed with information.

The seminar was highly interactive, with a vibrant Q&A session that reflected the eagerness of students to clarify doubts and deepen their understanding. Students actively engaged with the speaker, posing thoughtful questions on how to navigate challenges in research planning and execution. Some participants even shared their personal experiences, which sparked further discussion among attendees.

As the session concluded around 12.00 noon, participants gathered for a group photo with the guest speaker, marking a meaningful end to the day’s activity. Many attendees took the opportunity to have a one-on-one discussion with Prof. Dr. Sharmili for more personalized advice. These informal engagements provided added value to the seminar, reinforcing its objective of empowering students to embark on their research journey with greater clarity and confidence.

Date of Input: 23/01/2025 | Updated: 16/04/2025 | aslamiah